Advertised as "gold leaf" - but what material is it really?

In summary, the conversation discusses the challenges of importing materials from China, specifically imitation gold leaf. The speaker is looking for a local manufacturer but is unsure of the material and production process of the Chinese imitation gold leaf. It is suggested that the material could possibly be metallized film.
  • #1
stoki
2
0
TL;DR Summary
need help in recognizing and sourcing this material
I've been importing this material from China for years. However, shipping is getting more and more expensive, slow and unreliable. It would be a great to have a local manufacturer/supplier but I don't even know what it is. It is advertised as "imitation gold leaf" but... Imitation gold leaf from European suppliers is produced the same way like real gold leaf only gold is replaced by cooper. This Chinese one, when touched, it doesn't feel like metal. Does anyone have an idea what material it is and how it is produced?

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  • #3
That's it. Thank you.
 

1. What is "gold leaf"?

"Gold leaf" refers to a type of thin, delicate sheet made from real gold. It is often used for decorative purposes, such as gilding on artwork or furniture.

2. How can I tell if something is really made of gold leaf?

The best way to determine if something is made of real gold leaf is to have it tested by a professional. They can use various methods, such as acid testing or X-ray fluorescence, to accurately determine the composition of the material.

3. Can something be advertised as "gold leaf" but not actually be made of gold?

Yes, unfortunately, some products may be advertised as "gold leaf" but are actually made of imitation gold or other materials. It is important to carefully read the product description and do research on the seller before making a purchase.

4. What are some common materials used as substitutes for gold leaf?

Some common materials used as substitutes for gold leaf include copper, brass, aluminum, and synthetic materials like gold paint or foil. These materials may have a similar appearance to gold leaf, but they are not actually made of real gold.

5. Is gold leaf a valuable material?

Yes, gold leaf is considered a valuable material due to its use in decorative arts and its high gold content. However, the value of gold leaf can vary depending on the purity and thickness of the gold used, as well as the current market price of gold.

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